Best Des Moines to San Francisco Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Embarking on a move from the heartland's charm in Des Moines, IA, to the iconic cityscapes of San Francisco, CA, marks not just a change in scenery, but a thrilling leap into a new adventure. You're trading the quiet streets and golden waves of grain for the bustling alleys, steep hills, and fog-enshrouded mornings of the Bay Area, known affectionately as 'The City by the Bay'. Given the magnitude of this coast-to-coast relocation, it's crucial to secure the services of trusted and reliable professional movers. That's where our role comes into play, as we, at Great Guys Moving, use an unbiased ranking algorithm to ensure you're paired with the best movers for your transformative journey.
Best Des Moines to San Francisco Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.53 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Bay - L.A. Express Moving | 9.32 | D | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Best Move Inc | 9.23 | A+ | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| Hemmen Moving | 9.10 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Francisco to Des Moines guide.
5 Best Des Moines to San Francisco Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation services...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
About Adamantine Spine Moving
With multiple locations in Iowa, Adamantine Spine Moving has excellent coverage of the entire state with its reliable and convenient moving ...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Apartment/Condo Moving
About Bay - L.A. Express Moving
Bay-L.A. Express Moving is a professional moving company that serves Los Angeles, San Francisco, and the entire Bay Area. Specializing in mo...Read More >>
Services
- Long-distance moving
- Small relocation
- Full packing services
About Best Move Inc
Best Move, Inc. prides itself on being one of the most preferred and recommended moving companies in Fort Madison, IA. Its BBB accreditation...Read More >>
Services
- Material Packing
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
About Hemmen Moving
For over 25 years, Hemmen Moving has served the Ames area with full-service moving solutions. It provides services for residential and comme...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long distance moving
- Small moving
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Des Moines vs. San Francisco Neighborhood Comparison
When moving from Des Moines, IA, to San Francisco, CA, it's helpful to find a new neighborhood that feels like home. In this guide, we compare the local neighborhoods between Des Moines, IA & San Francisco, CA to assist in your transition. Discover which San Francisco neighborhood mirrors your favorite Des Moines locale.
| Des Moines | San Francisco | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Beaverdale | Noe Valley | Family-friendly with a cozy vibe |
| East Village | Mission District | Vibrant arts scene and diverse dining |
| Waveland Park | Bernal Heights | Community-centric with a quiet charm |
| Sherman Hill | Alamo Square | Historic homes and scenic views |
| Drake | Inner Sunset | Academic atmosphere and cultural diversity |
| Highland Park | Outer Richmond | Affordable, with a laid-back atmosphere |
| South of Grand | Pacific Heights | Upscale with stunning bay views |
| Ingersoll | Hayes Valley | Trendy shops and chic eateries |
| Roosevelt | Presidio Heights | Quiet, luxurious with lush landscapes |
| Gray's Lake | Marina District | Waterfront living with recreational spaces |
Moving from Des Moines to San Francisco introduces you to a rich tapestry of neighborhoods, each with unique charms. In San Francisco, the Noe Valley mirrors Beaverdale's family-friendly atmosphere, offering cozy coffee shops like Bernal Star and beautiful parks such as Douglass Playground. Meanwhile, the vibrant arts scene of Des Moines' East Village finds its counterpart in the Mission District, home to colorful murals and a diverse culinary landscape featuring establishments like La Taqueria. For those who enjoyed the historic vibe and community-centric feel of Sherman Hill, Alamo Square in San Francisco provides a similar ambiance, with the added bonus of the iconic Painted Ladies. Regardless of your favorite Des Moines neighborhood, San Francisco offers a slice of familiarity combined with its own unique flair.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to San Francisco
Moving from one city to another can be a daunting yet exciting experience. With this comparison, we aim to provide an honest reflection of the benefits and drawbacks of relocating from Des Moines, IA to San Francisco, CA. It’s essential to weigh these aspects to make an informed decision and embrace the new opportunities while being prepared for the challenges ahead.
Des Moines, IA- Lower job opportunities
- Less cultural diversity
- Minimal public transit
- Fewer dining options
San Francisco, CA- Diverse job market
- Rich cultural diversity
- Extensive public transit
- World-class restaurants
San Francisco, CA- High cost of living
- Compact living spaces
- Urban noise
- Traffic congestion
Des Moines, IA- Affordable living
- Spacious housing
- Quiet neighborhoods
- Easy commute
San Francisco, CA, offers a dynamic lifestyle that is hard to match, boasting an enviable mix of cultural diversity and a vibrant job market. Neighborhoods such as the Mission District are famous for their world-class restaurants like Tartine Bakery and Foreign Cinema. Living in San Francisco, you'll have access to extensive public transit options, making exploration and commuting more manageable. Enjoy the beautiful sights of the Golden Gate Bridge or spend a leisurely day at Dolores Park. However, this comes with the trade-off of higher living costs and smaller living spaces compared to Des Moines, IA. Furthermore, the bustling urban environment could mean adjusting to a bit more noise and dealing with traffic congestion, but for many, the city's offerings far outweigh these cons.
Des Moines vs. San Francisco Food Guide
Moving to a new city is an adventure, especially when it comes to exploring local foods, which are a vibrant part of a region's culture and lifestyle. To help you navigate your culinary journey, this guide offers a comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines & San Francisco , providing insights into what delights await you in your new home.
| Des Moines | San Francisco | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Sourdough Bread |
| Most popular meat dish | Iowa Chops | Cioppino |
| Most popular street food item | Taco Trucks | Mission Burrito |
| Most popular vegan food | Quinoa Salad | Avocado Toast |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
As you settle into your new life in San Francisco, you'll discover that the city's culinary landscape is as diverse as its population. Exploring neighborhoods like the Mission District will introduce you to the iconic Mission Burrito, a must-try for any food lover. Meanwhile, the sourdough bread at Tartine Bakery has become synonymous with San Francisco's food scene, offering a taste of the city's rich history and artisanal craftsmanship. With a strong emphasis on sustainability and health consciousness, the San Franciscan food scene warmly welcomes vegans and food enthusiasts alike, ensuring that no matter your dietary preferences, you'll find something to savor and enjoy.
Des Moines vs. San Francisco Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a vital role in making a new city feel like home. Through this restaurant comparison, you'll uncover places that could become your next favorite spots, using familiar eateries from Des Moines to guide you towards similar culinary delights in San Francisco. Whether you're craving haute cuisine or a homely diner experience, this guide has got you covered.
| Des Moines | San Francisco | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| A|Dong | The Slanted Door | Both offer a modern approach to traditional Asian dishes. |
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | BurgerMeister | Craft burgers and a unique dining experience make both spots stand out. |
| Fong's Pizza | Tony's Pizza Napoletana | Both celebrated for innovative and delicious pizza creations. |
| Centro | Delfina | High-quality, Italian-inspired dishes in a vibrant and trendy setting. |
| Harbinger | State Bird Provisions | Both specialize in small plates with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients. |
| Smitty's Tenderloin Shop | Tommy's Joynt | Both are iconic spots known for hearty portions and a casual atmosphere. |
| La Mie Bakery | Tartine Bakery | Both offer exceptional baked goods, pastries, and a cozy ambiance for a morning treat. |
| Alba | Rich Table | Inventive dishes and an upscale dining experience characterize both eateries. |
| Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Co. | Anchor Brewing Company | Both serve up craft beers with a side of delicious, upscale pub food. |
| Exile Brewing Co. | 21st Amendment Brewery | A commitment to quality brews and a vibrant atmosphere for all. |
For those who appreciate the artistry of well-crafted Asian cuisine, the transition from A|Dong in Des Moines to The Slanted Door in San Francisco will be seamless, with both restaurants offering a contemporary twist on traditional dishes. Pizza enthusiasts will feel right at home moving from Fong's Pizza to Tony's Pizza Napoletana, where the commitment to crafting innovative and mouthwatering pizzas is palpable. For those seeking a cozy yet sophisticated ambiance for breakfast or brunch, the transition from La Mie Bakery to Tartine Bakery promises a delightful experience, with both establishments reputed for their exceptional baked goods and warm, inviting atmospheres.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. San Francisco Real Estate & Living Facts
When preparing for a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison focuses on Des Moines, IA and San Francisco, CA , addressing key housing factors to help you make an informed decision. We'll delve into cost, architectural styles, and the livability of each city.
| Comparison | Des Moines | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Prairie, Craftsman | Victorian, Edwardian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, quiet neighborhoods | City views, proximity to tech jobs |
In both Des Moines and San Francisco, your lifestyle will be shaped by the city's unique features. Des Moines offers spacious properties and a slower pace of life, ideal for families seeking peace and green spaces. On the other hand, San Francisco, with its excellent walkability and bikeability scores, provides an urban lifestyle hard to match, alongside its historic Victorian and Edwardian homes. The vast difference in the cost of living and housing prices reflects the unique opportunities and challenges of each location. Both cities have distinct appeals, whether it's proximity to Silicon Valley's tech scene in San Francisco or Des Moines' affordable, family-friendly environment.
Des Moines vs. San Francisco Weather Considerations
When considering a move from Des Moines, IA to San Francisco, CA, it's crucial to understand how the weather varies between these locations. This comparison will help you prepare for the new climate conditions you'll experience.
Des Moines, IA
San Francisco, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
San Francisco, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
San Francisco, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
San Francisco, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Floods | Earthquakes, Fires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In transitioning from Des Moines to San Francisco, you'll notice a significant difference in both temperature extremes and precipitation. San Francisco's mild climate results in cooler summers and warmer winters compared to Des Moines. Additionally, the number of days of sunshine in San Francisco is higher, which may positively impact your outdoor activities and overall mood. Despite having a similar humidity level, the nature of this humidity, combined with San Francisco's coastal breezes, typically makes the air feel more comfortable. One notable contrast is in the natural disasters each city is prone to, necessitating different preparedness approaches.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to San Francisco
When considering a move from Des Moines, IA to San Francisco, CA, it's essential to understand the financial implications. This comparison will outline the differences in money and finance-related aspects between these two cities, helping you prepare for the transition.
| Comparison | Des Moines | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $121,826 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 164 |
| State Income Tax | Up to 8.53% | Up to 13.3% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.5% | 0.6% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7% | 8.5% |
| Top 3 Industries | Insurance, Finance, Manufacturing | Technology, Finance, Tourism |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Less pronounced | More pronounced |
Moving from Des Moines to San Francisco, you'll notice a stark increase in the cost of living; San Francisco is one of the most expensive cities in the U.S. While the average household income in San Francisco significantly exceeds that of Des Moines, reflecting the higher cost of living, taxes are also higher, particularly the state income tax. Despite a lower average property tax rate in San Francisco, the actual cost of property is substantially higher. Additionally, the prevalence of homelessness and poverty in San Francisco is noticeably higher, a reflection of the wide income disparities within the city.
Des Moines vs. San Francisco Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot between Des Moines & San Francisco, focusing on the political and religious makeup of the residents. By examining these aspects, you'll gain a clearer understanding of what to expect in terms of community values and cultural atmosphere when making your move.
| Des Moines | San Francisco | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderately liberal | Very liberal |
| Local Politics | Combination of Democratic and Republican influences | Strong Democratic influence |
| Religion | Christianity predominant, diverse religious presence | Less religiously affiliated, diverse spiritual practices |
When moving from Des Moines to San Francisco, you'll notice a significant shift in the political and religious landscape. Des Moines, while moderately liberal, maintains a mix of Democratic and Republican influences which affect local politics and community decisions. The religious scene in Des Moines is predominantly Christian but includes a spectrum of other religions. In contrast, San Francisco is known for its very liberal stance on both the political and social fronts. Local politics are deeply rooted in Democratic ideologies, and the city champions progressive causes. The approach to religion in San Francisco is more secular, with a higher percentage of residents identifying as non-religious, though there's a rich tapestry of spiritual practices and beliefs across the community.
Des Moines vs. San Francisco Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Des Moines, IA to San Francisco, CA will bring significant changes to your daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Des Moines & San Francisco is designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like in these cities.
| Comparison | Des Moines | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 34 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
While Des Moines offers a significantly shorter average commute time compared to San Francisco, it falls short in terms of public transit options. The availability and convenience of public transportation in San Francisco are considerably higher, making it feasible to navigate the city without a personal vehicle. This aspect is crucial for you to consider, especially if you're looking to reduce your environmental footprint or if the cost of owning a car in a more congested and expensive city like San Francisco is a concern. Unlike Des Moines, where a car is almost essential for getting around, in San Francisco, you can utilize the extensive public transit system to reach virtually any part of the city.
Popular Des Moines, IA to California Moving Routes
- Des Moines to Los Angeles
- Des Moines to San Diego
- Des Moines to San Jose
- Des Moines to Fresno
- Des Moines to Sacramento
- Des Moines to Long Beach
- Des Moines to Oakland
- Des Moines to Bakersfield
- Des Moines to Anaheim
- Des Moines to Santa Ana
- Des Moines to Riverside
- Des Moines to Stockton
- Des Moines to Irvine
- Des Moines to Chula Vista
